Blog Layout

How 500-Series Modules Can Revolutionize Your Studio

305-595-3002

500-Series Equipment is arguably the best option for getting high-quality recording equipment on a tight budget.

What is 500 Series Equipment?
The 500 Series is a modular analog format for audio equipment that was originally invented by API in the 1970s. While the history is somewhat convoluted, how it works is relatively simple. An individual module (such as a preamp) is inserted into a rack that provides it with the power to operate. Each module is the same size (5.25” tall x 1.5” wide) and the power rack can hold multiple modules. This power rack can then be placed on top of a desk, in a standard 19” rack, or carried around to any location required. The power rack has both an input and an output for each module so audio can get to and from the module.

How Does it Revolutionize the Studio?
500 Series equipment allows an unprecedented level of customization. Engineers can ‘mix-and-match’ products from different manufacturers, making it much more flexible than traditional studio designs based around a console. For example, if you want an API preamp in your signal chain followed by an SSL EQ, you can now have both instead of having to choose one or the other and buy a whole API or SSL console. This format allows you to effectively build your own customized high-end channel strip that fits your needs, complete with preamps, EQs, compressors, DIs, and a whole range of other tools to process your audio. 500 Series racks also fit in a 1U-3U rack space, saving valuable real-estate in small home studio control rooms without sacrificing quality or flexibility.

While 500 Series equipment can get pricey (the average module falls between $500 and $1500 USD), it offers professional grade audio quality in a much more affordable package than buying a console. Connecting 500 series equipment to most consumer-grade audio interfaces is quite simple as well: just connect the XLR outputs on the power rack to the line-level inputs on your interface. You can get great sound in a matter of minutes.

If you like the idea of building a studio around 500 Series equipment but don’t know where to start, I have a few recommendations for you. First and foremost, do some heavy reading on the equipment. As the format has grown in popularity, more and more manufacturers have made 500 Series versions of their equipment. Major manufacturers like Neve, SSL, and API all produce 500 Series equipment, as well as some of the lesser-known companies like Avedis Audio, BAE Audio, Purple Audio, Warm Audio, Radial Engineering, Chandler Limited, Heritage Audio, and more. Find the modules that are right for you and your studio.
Shop 500-Series Gear

I also recommend buying the power racks that fit in a 19” rack, as they are usually the 8 or 10 module racks and provide you with plenty of room to expand as you build up your collection of 500 Series equipment. In addition, they integrate nicely with any rack-mount gear you may already own, such as an audio interface, keeping your studio clean and organized. If you’re reading this and already own a smaller 500 Series power rack, don't fret: most manufacturers make rack ears for them that allow you to easily mount them in a 19” rack.

Lastly, consider hiring a professional engineer or studio design consultant to advise you on your purchase if you are not technically inclined or are making a jump to a much more expensive system. They will be able to recommend both equipment and methods of incorporating it into your studio that you may not know about. A few hundred dollars for a few hours of an expert’s time can save you thousands of dollars down the line. However, if you do plan to design your studio on your own, feel free to use the examples in this article as a starting point. They are by no means comprehensive, but they will give you a basic idea of how to implement 500 Series equipment in a creative and efficient way.
Share by: